Leadership Thoughts: Part 1

One aspect of the Vintage program is leadership development. We have begun an intense dialogue on the topic this week. I will share some of what we’ve been learning in today’s post and possibly future posts.

So why is leadership necessary? Well, because there may be some “born leaders,” but not enough to depend on them. Look around at the problems in our world today, even problems within the Church. Sometimes it feels overwhelming! Where is the leadership to take on these challenges? There seems to be a gap. Therefore, it’s important to develop leaders today (hence Vintage). 

1) Leaders have followers. If no one is following, then you are not leading! I’ve seen some Christians try to plant a church or start a new ministry, but nobody came with them to do it. Leaders have the ability to cast a vision and communicate why people should follow them and invest their time/energy into what they are doing. If you are doing a lot of talking, but nobody is following, then it’s probably time to re-think why this is.

2) Leaders are not loved or admired. What we mean is leaders are not defined by their popularity or charisma. How many people do you know have great charisma/popularity, but no leadership ability? I can think of a few church leaders, politicians, and personal friends who fall into this category. Now some people do have both leadership and charisma/popularity, but those admirations alone don’t make a leader.

3) Leaders are visible. They don’t hide in the background. Instead, they set an example for others to follow. My first job in high school was at Disneyland. The president of the resort at the time I was hired was considered among fellow workers as a weak leader because we never saw him. Then a new president was hired and he became known for being present in the parks among the workers every day, and boy what a difference that made in terms of employee approval and “buy-in” because this guy knew us, knew the daily situations we faced, and led by example.

4) Leadership is not identified by rank. You aren’t a leader because you have a big, fancy title. Being “Vice President of Cool” doesn’t make it so. You might be, but you might not be. Title doesn’t matter. You can be a leader in whatever situation you find yourself in today! Do you believe it?

I encourage you to click “comment” below and share your thoughts on leadership.